Home healthcare services are an essential form of support for many people, particularly those who are vulnerable or marginalized. Unfortunately, it can be challenging to find inclusive care that meets the needs of LGBTQ adults. Historical discrimination and stigma have left many individuals hesitant to seek the care and support they require.
In this post, we’ll delve into the specific healthcare needs of LGBTQ adults and the common health issues they face. Additionally, we’ll highlight how Maxim Healthcare Services is committed to providing LGBTQ-inclusive care and meeting the unique needs of this community.
Access to home healthcare is important for LGBTQ adults
According to “Aging with Pride: National Health, Aging and Sexuality Gender Study” by Dr. Karen Fredriksen Goldsen, there are about 2.7 million adults in the U.S., aged 50 and older, that identify as LGBTQ. 1.1 million are older than 65, and these numbers are expected to double by 2060.
Compared with their heterosexual counterparts, LBGTQ elders are more likely to be single, live alone, not have children, be in poor health and have faced poverty and homelessness. They are also less likely to frequent senior centers and benefit from meal programs and other vital services.
Access to trusted and reliable home healthcare services benefits this group because they are much less likely to have a support system or family caregivers who can provide support after injury, surgery or illness.
Understanding the unique needs of LGBTQ individuals
A research presentation given by Alisa Grigorovich, Ph.D., “A Research-Based Film to Enhance the Quality of Home Care for Older LGBTQ Adults” during the National LGBTQ Health Conference highlighted several striking findings.
Her research found that LGBTQ people often avoid formal home care and home healthcare and often face overt or subtle discrimination when they try. The fear of what would happen if their provider found out about their sexuality is another barrier to care. In fact, her research showed that 30% of LGBTQ home care users feared that their caregivers would not touch them if they knew their sexuality.
This is not an unfounded fear. Dr. Fredricksen Golden’s research shows that 13% of older lesbian, gay and bisexual individuals reported being denied care or receiving poor care because of their sexual identity; among transgender respondents, the number jumped to 40%.
Common health challenges
Older members of the LGBTQ community face a variety of health concerns. According to the American Heart Association, conditions such as asthma, diabetes, obesity, visual impairment, high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease commonly affect minority communities. Among white communities, cancer is the most prevalent condition.
Another major health issue is HIV. Because of antiretroviral drugs, people who have HIV are living longer; according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, adults over 50 make up 45% of Americans living with HIV.
Not all health challenges are purely physical. Social isolation is prevalent and can lead to depression, mental health issues, increased physical health issues and mortality.
Shared values between providers and clients
Research has shown that marginalized communities are most comfortable in healthcare settings that share their values and treat them with respect and kindness. At Maxim, our mission is to improve the quality of life within our communities – this includes all members of the LGBTQ community. Our patients, caregivers, customers and team members represent a broad spectrum of backgrounds, perspectives and cultures, and we recognize, respect and celebrate those differences.
Diversity and inclusion are core values for us and are woven into our company’s fabric. Our employees and caregivers receive training on diversity and inclusion, unconscious bias and other relevant topics.
Maxim strives to create a sense of belonging for people of all ages, races, ethnicities, gender identities, sexual orientations, religious affiliations, mental or physical abilities, veteran status, and other characteristics. Our goal is to be an environment where all are welcome, individualities are celebrated, and everyone feels comfortable enough to be themselves.
We offer a wide range of home healthcare services to adult patients. Please visit our care services page to learn more about how our services can improve your quality of life. There are over 150 Maxim offices nationwide; contact the location closest to you to get started.
